April 1, 2025
3 Key Considerations for Specifying Sustainable Ceramic Tiles
01 THINK HEALTHY
While ceramic tiles are free of plastic, formaldehyde, and other volatile organic compounds, they can contain recycled materials, so it’s imperative to watch out for added lead or other harmful elements when sourcing. More than 85 percent of North American ceramic tiles are covered by an industry-wide environmental product declaration (EPD), and all are cited by the Tile Council of North America in reports including the Ceramic Tile Green Guide and the Material Ingredient Guide. Internationally, the Spanish Ceramic Manufacturers’ Association outlines global EPD standards and insights into ceramics’ impact on indoor air quality.
02 THINK LONG TERM
Not only can tiles be converted back into raw material for new products, but they also boast a useful lifespan estimated to be up to 50 years. Long-term sustainability goals should be clearly defined in a specification’s goals and objectives section, with a focus on durability and life cycle as key outcomes. To strengthen these goals, consider specifying requirements that go beyond the standard recommendations of ASTM International.
03 THINK LOCAL
The use of ceramic materials like terra-cotta for cladding dates back to the Babylonian era. Today, naturally occurring clays can still be sourced within 500 miles of manufacturing sites, making local sourcing a smart choice for reducing energy consumption. Manufacturers can provide key data on production locations, raw material sources, and transportation methods, helping architects and designers make informed, sustainable decisions.
REMATCH
LIVDEN
A trio of designs in the Rematch collection leaves dynamic signatures upon Ivory Porcelain tiles. Vibrant Wishbone adds a dynamic layer to midcentury environments in three effervescent tones. Curved lines and dual colors distinguish Roundabout, whose segmented pathways are animated across four color combinations. Three rich tones elevate Magnolia’s Moroccan style into an impactful focal point for kitchens or bathrooms as well.
Valencia Stool
Andreu World
Following the DANA storms that ravaged Valencia, Spain, last fall, Spanish designer Patricia Urquiola partnered with Andreu World, one of the region’s leading furniture manufacturers, to launch this hauntingly beautiful piece. The stool, which is 3D-printed using a biodegradable and compostable material, has a trunk-like form that appears as though it were hit by a force, evoking resilience and community with its interwoven texture. All proceeds from its sales benefit the affected communities and individuals.
Natural Press Ceramic Tile
Fireclay Tile
To reduce both cost and carbon emissions, Fireclay Tile introduced this affordable single-fired tile series, offered in a selection of 32 curated colors ranging from vibrant hues to subdued and classic neutrals. The line comprises 15 shapes and sizes, such as standard subway tiles, large-format squares, and elongated hexagons. What’s more, Fireclay donates 1 percent of the profits on each square foot produced to a variety of charitable organizations.
Lincoln Desk Collection
Room & Board
Recognized for its extensive research in human-centered design, architecture firm Gensler collaborated with Room & Board as a product design consultant to develop an elegant sit-to-stand desk with a multitude of user- and tech-friendly bells and whistles. Think touchscreen controls, concealed cord organization, and an integrated hinged-lid power hatch, to name a few. Designed to suit both residential and workplace settings, the collection, which includes desk and console configurations, is available in seven wood finishes and three hardware options.
Crepe
RBW
A collaboration between RBW and Studio & Projects founder and principal Little Wing Lee, also the founder of Black Folks in Design, this sconce plays on the translucency of glass, layering an opalescent globe diffuser onto a blush-toned or frosted cast-glass plate, resulting in a sculptural yet airy lamp. It’s available in three white-color temperatures and three sizes: 7.5 by 8.8 inches or 12.6 by 14.9 with a 5.4-inch globe, or 15.7 by 18.6 inches with a 7.9-inch globe.
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